This review is divided into the following analytical methods: ion spectroscopy, electron spectroscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy, atomic force microscopy, optical spectroscopy, desorption techniques, and X-ray techniques. (MVL)

Discusses the problem of symmetry avoidance using water as an historical example. Uses simple pi systems for the analysis. Provides methodology and examples. Investigates two naive arguments. (MVL)

Described are the energetics involved in the formation of molecular hydrogen using concepts that should be familiar to students beginning the study of molecular orbital theory. Emphasized are experimental data on ionization energies. Included are two-electron atomic and molecular systems. (CW)

Describes an experimental procedure to acquaint inorganic chemistry students with stereochemical concepts using tris-(2,3-butanediamine)cobalt(III). Notes two isomeric forms exist and both form metal chelates. Separation is accomplished by chromatography and analysis is by NMR and infrared spectroscopy. Provides spectra of isomers. (MVL)

Suggests two methods of developing the study of the noble gases: first, the discovery of the elements and recent discovery of xenon show the human face of chemistry (historical development); second, the properties of noble gas compounds (particularly xenon) can be used to test the framework of conventional chemistry. (Author/JM)

This review covers methods for identification, characterization, and determination of rubber and materials in rubber. Topics include: general information, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermal methods, gel permeation chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, analysis related to safety and health, and…

Discusses a symposium which focused on the influence of inorganic chemistry on organic synthesis, the impact of organic chemistry on biochemistry and vice versa, chemical reaction dynamics, and advances in inorganic chemistry. Explains the purpose of the symposium was to illustrate the intellectual dynamism of modern chemistry. (MVL)

Discusses a new method for determining the eigenvalues of the Schroedinger equation when the potential energy function does not have a simple form. Describes the mathematical methods and provides an application. Lists limitations to the method. (MVL)

Introduces different methodological strategies in analyzing potential energy surfaces (PES) used in chemical reactivity studies. Discusses the theory of PES and gives examples to be used for student work. Provides procedures for calculating normal coordinates and vibrational properties of an activated complex. (ML)

Explores graph theory and use of topological indices to predict boiling points. Lists three indices: Wiener Number, Randic Branching Index and Molecular Connectivity, and Molecular Identification numbers. Warns of inadequacies with stereochemistry. (ML)

Reviews a method for determining oxidation numbers in covalent compounds and balancing mixed organic-inorganic or purely organic systems. Points out ambiguities presented when adjacent atoms have small or zero electronegativity differences. Presents other limitations that arise when using electronegativity values. (CW)

Reviews techniques for the characterization and analysis of synthetic polymers, copolymers, and blends. Includes techniques for structure determination, separation, and quantitation of additives and residual monomers; determination of molecular weight; and the study of thermal properties including degradation mechanisms. (MVL)

Describes a crystallography experiment using both diffraction-angle and diffraction-intensity information to determine the lattice constant and a lattice independent molecular parameter, while still employing standard X-ray powder diffraction techniques. Details the method, experimental details, and analysis for this activity. (CW)

Presented is a classification of polymers according to physical condition. Considered are molecular structure and arrangements. Described are demonstrations using polarized light and the mechanical properties of polymers. (CW)

Analytical methods are reviewed for: alkali and alkaline earth metals; transition metals; precious metals; group 12, 13, 14, and 15 metals, nonmetals; radionuclides; multiple metals; anions; gases; chromatography; mass spectroscopy; photometry; sampling; volatile compounds; surfactants; detergents; pesticides; herbicides; and fungicides. (MVL)